Syracuse University safety Max Suter is Big East defensive player of the week

Frank Ordoñez / The Post-StandardSenior safety Max Suter during a Syracuse University football practice in August.

Syracuse, NY -- Strong safety Max Suter was named the Big East Conference defensive player of the week today for his effort in Syracuse University's 13-9 victory over South Florida on Saturday.

The senior from Ruffs Dale, Pa., led the Orange's dominant defensive effort against the Bulls with eight tackles, (six solo) and three for a loss of 16 yards. Suter also sacked South Florida quarterback B.J. Daniels for a loss of eight yards and forced a fumble.

SU's defense paved the way for Saturday's win by holding South Florida to 219 total yards on offense. The defense allowed only three points to the Bulls, as the other six came on a kickoff return for a touchdown.

The award is Suter's second player of the week honor. He was special teams player of the week in 2007 after a game at Louisville where he returned a kick 93 yards for a touchdown.

This season, Suter has 24 tackles, including 3.5 for a loss of yards and one sack.

Rutgers freshman quarterback Chas Dodd was named the league's offensive player of the week, and Scarlet Knights kicker San San Te won the special teams honor.